Humantay Lake Trek 1 Day

Introduction

Humantay Lake Day Trek is a one day tour from Cusco that leads you up to a high-altitude turquoise lagoon at about 4200 meters above sea level. It starts very early with a 4:30 am pickup in the city and a roughly three-hour drive to Soraypampa. From the trailhead you hike 7 km round trip, with steep pitches that test your lungs as the air thins. Local herders tend their alpacas along the way and you cross open high-plain terrain en route to the lake’s edge. Guides speak English and Spanish, break when needed and make sure everyone keeps pace. You’ll need to buy the entrance ticket in advance and spend at least two nights in Cusco to adjust.

The climb feels calm at first but gets intense. One minute you chat with fellow hikers about gear, the next you’re pausing for breath at 3800 m. I wonder if you’ll catch the color shift as soon as the water comes into view. Bright turquoise, almost shocking. Guides hand out coca tea, or small snacks, then push you on. Final switchbacks hurt but end in silence broken only by your own heavy breathing. By afternoon you’re back in Cusco, legs tired but your head still up in those peaks.

Trip Details

Duration: 1 Day
Activities: Hiking, Culture, Adventure
Average Group Size: Up to 8
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Accommodation: None (return same day)
Tour Language: English, Spanish
Hiking Distance: 7 km / 4.4 mi
Starts/Ends: Cusco / Cusco
Minimum Altitude: 3000 msnm (9843 ft)
Max Altitude: 4200 msnm (13779 ft)
Age Recommended: Min 12 Yers Old
is Necesary Aclimatization: yes
Tickets to entrance: is Necesary buy in advance

Trip Summary

04:30 – Guide picks you up at your hotel in Cusco
05:00 – Depart city, drive through rural valleys
08:15 – Reach Soraypampa trailhead, quick prep
08:30 – Hit the trail, steady uphill sections
10:15 – Mid-hike break near a small grazing area
11:00 – Arrive at Humantay Lake, quick rest
11:30 – Snack, photos, optional brief ritual
12:15 – Start descent with fresh legs
14:30 – Back at vehicle, hot lunch at Soraypampa
15:00 – Return drive to Cusco
17:00 – Drop-off at your hotel, tour ends

Why you'll love this tour

You reach Humantay Lake in just one day with minimal logistics. No camping gear to carry, just a daypack. The drive from Cusco is straightforward, the trail well marked, and the max group size of eight keeps things personal and safe.
The contrast between early-morning chill on the van and the sudden burst of sunlight at the lake feels surprising. One moment quiet road, next a wide circle of snow-topped Andes around electric water. That shift from town noise to high-plain calm makes the whole climb feel special.
You’ll learn local customs on the way up. Shamans still stop by the lake to leave offerings. Guides often explain pachamama rituals, share coca leaves so you can chew if altitude hits hard. It’s a slice of Andean culture woven into a tough hike.
The path is tough but doable for anyone with average fitness. No technical climbing, just steady uphill. You’ll test lung capacity, build confidence, talk trail jargon with others. Those who finish feel they’ve earned every step and a story worth telling.

Itinerary

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DAY 1 Humantay Lake Trek 1 Day

We will pick you up from the hotel, and head out on our adventure to The Humantay Lake, starting with a 3-hour drive to the village of Mollepata, found at 3900 metres elevation. In Mollepata, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast, to begin our day in the best possible way. After a half an hour drive, we will arrive at Soraypampa, where we will begin our hike to the Humantay Lake, found at 4200 metres elevation. With spectacular countryside and the impressive snow-capped Salkantay and Humantay mountains. We will hike for about 1.5 hours to the lagoon, which will be made worthwhile when we arrive at this magical lake. We will have plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the magnificent views. We will then begin our descent to Soraypampa. We will return the way we came and stop for a buffet lunch in Mollepata. After a short rest, we will return to the city of Cusco, arriving approximately at 6pm.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Your trip confirmation will be sent once you have paid for your service.
Comfortable clothing and with a warm jacket, gloves and woolly hat.
Sun protection.
Waterproof Jacket or Rain Poncho.
Comfortable hiking shoes/boots.
water
Snacks
Camera
Daily departures
Departure time: 03:30 – 04:00 am.
Trip Duration: 13:00 hours approx.

Reviews

5.0 4.9 - 462 TripAdvisor Reviews

Discover what fellow travelers have to say about their journeys through Turkey. From breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural experiences, these reviews highlight the unforgettable moments that make each trip truly special.

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Oswaldo Luiz C

5.0

A Agencia primou pela qualidade. Tanto nas programações, excelentes guias, qualidade dos transportes, horários e pontualidade.

Ruan N

5.0

A agência Yacana foi perfeita! Organizou nossos passeios no Peru da melhor forma possível, nos deu todo suporte que precisamos, independentemente do horário, nos deu dicas valiosas para os passeios, sugestões, além do acompanhamento de tudo ao longo dos dias....

Sunshine60374635165

5.0

Experiência indescritível! Fomos em 2 casais para o Peru e contratamos absolutamente todos os passeios com a Yacana. Vale Sagrado, Machu Picchu, 7 lagunas, montanha colorida, city tour cusco e islas ballestas e oasis em Lima. Segurança impecável, pontualidade perfeita...

Diego R

5.0

Experiência incrível, passeios todos bem feitos com a Yacana. Guias muitos preparados e prestativos, em especial a Rosa. Recomendo!

Daniele P

5.0

A agência tem um excelente atendimento, faz adaptações e oferece os melhores passeios, além de todo o pós venda que captura os feedbacks de forma atenta e cuidadosa. Recomendo para todos que posso os serviços da Yacana.

Flávia F

5.0

Tivemos ótima experiência com nossos tour! Equipe pontual, muito organizada, guias bem preparados e simpáticos . Empresa de confiança!

Tamara F

5.0

Tivemos uma experiencia maravilhosa com o guia Robert e motorista Hernan no passeio a Wanacancha + Pisac! O Robert é uma simpatia e cheio de cultura - um professor!!! Recomendamos muito!!

Miliani Greco

5.0

Desde o início do atendimento até a execução do que contratamos, foram extremamente atenciosos e pontuais. Não precisávamos nos preocupar com nada, apenas em curtir o Peru e suas belezas.

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Included

Briefing the day before the trek.
Hotel Pick-up and drop off in The Plaza de Armas.
Tourist Transport
Entrance Ticket to Lake Humantay
01 breakfast, 01 lunch- vegan and vegetarian options available at no extra cost.
Professional bi-lingual guide
First Aid kit with oxygen tank.
Blankets

Not Included

Horses (Optional) ($25.00 USD Per person. Paid directly in the destination).
Tips (Optional).

What to Bring

Daypack (20 L minimum): Enough room for layers, snacks and water. Should fit in under-seat on the van.
Water bottle (1.5 L): Hydration is key. Refill at Soraypampa before start.
Warm layers: Fleece or down jacket, breathable base. Temperatures can drop near the lake.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, broad-brim hat, sunscreen SPF 50. UV at 4000 m can burn quick.
Snacks: Energy bars, trail mix, a banana. You need small fuel boosts on steep slopes.
Sturdy hiking shoes: Broken-in boots or trail runners with grip. Wet rocks near lake can be slippery.
Rain poncho or light shell: Weather can change on the move, clouds roll in fast.
Trekking poles (if not upgrading): Helps with knee relief on descent.
Altitude pills: If you’re prone to headaches or nausea.
Personal ID and printed entrance ticket: Guards check at Soraypampa gate.

Is this trip right for you?

If you have limited time in Cusco but want a real mountain experience, this tour fits. You spend one full day on the trail, back before dinner. No overnight stay required. Perfect for tight schedules, or as a side trip between other Inca City plans.
If you worry about altitude, note that the hike tops at 4200 m and moves fast. You need two days in Cusco minimum beforehand. If dizziness or headache hits, guides carry oxygen. But you should be okay if you’re steady on your feet and chew coca.
If group size matters, this tour keeps it small—max eight people. You won’t be lost in a crowd, you’ll chat with your guide, swap camera spots. Ideal for solo travelers wanting some social vibe, or friends who insist on a less busy route.
If you’re looking for basic creature comfort this isn’t it. No fancy meals on top, no cabins. Just quick snacks, simple lunch at Soraypampa. You’ll need to bring your own layers and energy bars. It’s focused on the climb and that turquoise payoff.

Pricing

Updgrades

Horse support for ascent ($30 per person): Ride up first 3 km to save energy. Good if you’re short on time or lungs.
Trekking poles rental ($10): Lightweight aluminum poles, adjustable height. Reduces knee strain on steep trails.
Portable oxygen tank ($5): Handy if you feel dizzy or short-winded above 3800 m.
Extra snack pack ($8): Includes cheese, fresh fruit, granola bar. Beats basic biscuits.
Private guide upgrade ($50): One-on-one attention, custom pacing and extra stops for photos.

Travel Guide

Recommendations

Spend two full days in Cusco before the trek. Drink mate de coca, rest well. Avoid heavy activity on Day 1. Get a good night’s sleep, check your gear and ticket.

Climate

High-Andean conditions with big swings. Early morning can be near zero Celsius. Midday on trail feels warm once you climb. Late afternoon wind picks up.

Season of the year recommended

May through September have driest skies. June–July popular so small crowds. April or October bring occasional showers but fewer people.

What to wear

Layer up. Base layer for sweat, mid-layer for warmth, shell for wind. Hat and gloves for summit. Quick-dry pants and wool socks.

Physical preparation

Do stair runs or long uphill walks at home. Carry a pack with water to simulate load. Practice breathing exercises for thin air.

Local people

Herders in Soraypampa speak Quechua and Spanish. They’re friendly, often greet hikers, sell simple snacks or coca leaves.

Who is this for

Active travelers aged 12 and up who can handle thin air and steep climbs. Not for complete beginners but doable if you train a bit.

Food on route

Lunch is a hot plate served at Soraypampa after descent. Typically rice with chicken or vegetarian stew, soup and bread. It’s simple but filling. Expect homemade style, nothing fancy. You’ll regain calories fast, then ride back to Cusco feeling satisfied despite the basic menu.

Faqs

How long does the round-trip hike take?

Approximately three hours of walking, three more including breaks and descent. Some go faster, some slower if altitude slows you.

What’s the steepest section like?

The last 2 km gains about 350 m in altitude. It’s a steady climb with switchbacks that can feel endless until you crest.

Can I rent a horse to share the load?

Yes. There’s a horse option for the first part of the climb. You pay extra and switch back to foot near Soraypampa.

Do I need to buy the entrance ticket in advance?

You must buy the ticket before departure, either online or at a local office in Cusco. Guides check it.

Is a guide mandatory?

Yes. Regulations require a licensed guide for safety and trail permits at Soraypampa gate.

What happens if I get altitude sickness?

Guides carry oxygen and first-aid kits. You descend slowly, rest, hydrate. Mild cases clear up fast.

Are toilets available on the trail?

Basic pit toilets at Soraypampa only, before the hike. No facilities at the lake itself.

How many people per group?

Groups cap at eight. Keeps the pace personal, easier to stop when needed.

Can children under 12 join?

Minimum age is 12. Younger kids risk altitude stress.

What languages does the guide speak?

English and Spanish fluently. Basic Quechua greetings sometimes.

Will I need trekking poles?

Not mandatory but helpful on descent. You can bring your own or rent on route.

What’s the best time to start?

4:30 am pickup gets you on trail by dawn. Earlier start helps avoid midday clouds.

Is lunch included?

Yes, a hot lunch back at Soraypampa after the descent with soup and a main dish.

How heavy is my daypack?

Aim for under 5 kg. Water, layers and snacks add up. Keep it light.

What footwear works best?

Sturdy hiking boots or trail runners with good sole grip. Wet spots can be slick near the lake.

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